Peking duck is a classic Chinese dish that is known around the world for its crispy skin and tender, flavorful meat. The dish is believed to have originated Beijing, also known as Peking, and has been served for centuries at high-end banquets and special occasions.

Peking duck is typically made from a specific breed of duck, known as the Pekin duck, which is raised for 65 days before being prepared. The duck is seasoned with a blend of spices, such as ginger, cinnamon, and cloves, and then roasted in a wood-fired oven until the skin is crispy and the meat is juicy and tender.

One of the unique features of this dish is the way it is served. The duck is typically brought to the table whole, and then carved in front of the diners by a skilled chef. The meat is usually served with thin pancakes, scallions, and a sweet bean sauce, which diners can use to assemble their own duck wraps.

For international students studying in China, trying Peking duck should certainly be on your foodie bucket list. While the dish can be found in many restaurants throughout China, the best place to try it is in Beijing, where it originated. Some of the most famous places to try Peking duck in Beijing include Quanjude, Bianyifang, and Da Dong. When ordering Peking duck, we suggest asking the restaurant for their recommended preparation and serving style, as each chef and restaurant may have their own unique approach to the dish.

Soup Dumplings (Xiaolongbao)

Xiaolongbao, also known as soup dumplings, is a type of steamed dumpling filled with savory soup broth and meat filling. Originally from the Jiangnan region of China, xiaolongbao has gained immense popularity throughout the country and is now considered a staple in Chinese cuisine.

The significance of xiaolongbao in Chinese cuisine lies in its unique combination of flavors and textures. The delicate, thin skin of the dumpling contrasts with the rich, savory broth and meat filling, creating a burst of flavor with each bite.

To try xiaolongbao in China, head to a local dumpling restaurant or chain such as Din Tai Fung, famous for their xiaolongbao. When ordering, be sure to specify the number of dumplings you want (usually in increments of six) and any preferred dipping sauces, such as soy sauce or vinegar.

Mapo Tofu

Mapo tofu is a spicy and flavorful Sichuan dish made with tofu, minced meat (usually pork), chili oil, and Sichuan peppercorns. Its name translates to “pockmarked old woman’s tofu,” referring to the dish’s creator who had smallpox scars on her face.

Mapo tofu is a significant dish in Chinese cuisine as it represents the bold and complex flavors of Sichuan cuisine, which is known for its use of spicy and numbing seasonings.

To try Mapo tofu in China, head to a local Sichuan restaurant or chain such as Chuan Chuan Xiang. When ordering, be sure to specify your preferred level of spiciness and any additional ingredients you want, such as extra pork or vegetables. Mapo tofu is typically served with steamed rice.

Hot Pot (Huo Guo)

Hot pot is a traditional Chinese dish that is popular in many regions of China, especially during the winter months. It consists of a simmering pot of broth placed on a portable stove on the dining table. Diners then cook a variety of raw ingredients such as thinly sliced meats, vegetables, mushrooms, tofu, and noodles in the hot broth, and dip the cooked ingredients in a variety of sauces before eating.

Hot pot is significant in Chinese cuisine because it represents the communal and interactive nature of Chinese dining culture. It’s a social activity that brings people together around a shared meal, and allows everyone to cook and eat at their own pace.

To find hot pot in China, look for local hot pot restaurants or chains such as Haidilao or Xiabu Xiabu. Most hot pot restaurants offer a range of broth flavors to choose from, including spicy Sichuan-style, mild herbal, or tomato-based broths. You can also choose the ingredients you want to cook in the hot pot, and the sauces you want to dip them in. Some restaurants may also offer all-you-can-eat options for a fixed price.